NEWS BULLETIN Friday, 14 September 2012

58th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

Colombo, Sri Lanka07-15 September 2012

Issue - No. 7

Ms. Dintle Nkwanyana, Personal Assistant to Hon. Speaker, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

Final Plenary and Closing Ceremony will be held at the BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre today.

Major events scheduled are as follows: -

9:00 General Assembly and Receiving of Plaques

14:00 Meeting of the Society of Clerks at-the-Table

16:00 Closing Ceremony

16:30 Meeting of the New Executive Committee

19:30-21:30 Farewell Dinner Hosted by Hon. D.M Jayaratne, MP, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

Weather today -

The workshop on “Terrorism - the Threat to Democracy and Security” was held at 2.30 p.m. in Committee Room ‘C’ of the BMICH on 12 September 2012. While it was moderated by Hon. Elijah Okupa, MP (Uganda), the Discussion Leaders were Hon . Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, MP (Uganda), Senator Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah (Paklistan) and Ms. Irene Ng, MP (Singapore).

Hon. Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, MP (Uganda), Discussion Leader, stated at the outset that governments have realized the importance of collective action in combating terrorism as Terrorists are a great hindrance to democracy. People should be able to choose their own governments but armed groups disrupt that process. Those who are oppressed resort to terrorism. Mr. Muhwezi Katugugu, went on to explain how poverty, unemployment, unbalanced development, unfair redistribution of wealth, corruption, nepotism and gender imbalance create space for terrorism. Race and religion should be separated from terrorism since terrorists have no race or religion. Effective counter-terrorism programmes are needed.

Senator Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah of Pakistan, Discussion Leader, said that

terrorism was no longer a local problem but has developed to become a global problem. After the 9/11 incident, it is apparent that even the developed world is not safe. Deprivation leads to terrorism, hence, the biggest weapon against terrorism is to create a just society. At present, terrorists use modern technology such as the Internet. Senator Hussain Shah emphasized

(continued in p.7)

Zero tolerance towards terrorism should be the policy of all Governments

Day Night

Historic SasseruwaSasseruwa which is located in Meegal-

awa in the Kurunegala-Anuradhapura border is a place of great history, running back to thousands of years to the time of King Devanampiyatissa (262 – 232 BC.).

The temple premises are quite unassum-ing and at first glance it is not apparent that this is a place of rich and vibrant history. The temple has had the patronage of kings from various eras.

Sasseruwa is popularly known as Ras Ve-hera. Owing to the fact that Buddha Rashmi or Budhu Ras had emanated on the occa-sion of planting one of the 32 saplings of the Sri Maha Bodhi at this site by King Devan-ampiyatissa. Hence the name Ras Vehera. Furthermore, it is also thought that as a result, the temple was established here.

Another school of thought is that King Val-agamba gathered his troops here, which in Sinhala mean ‘Senaga Ras Karapu Viharaya’ that resulted in the name Ras Vehera.

King Devanampiyatissa established the temple. King Valagamba during his 13 years of exile from the capital, sought refuge at Ras Vehera from foreign invaders and built the two len vihara (cave temples); Maha Viharaya and Sath Pilima Viharaya.

Then, King Mahasen was believed to have commissioned the sculpture of a rock stand-ing statue of Lord Buddha, which is one of the highlights of the visit. It is because of this statue that the temple is also known as Sasse-ruwa, which is derived from Sahalgath Ruwa (meaning carved image). There is a reference to King Bathiyatissa, with a cave designated in his name.

Though Sasseruwa had been abandoned for some time we see a renaissance during

the Kandyan era under the patronage of King Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe.

The ancient Bodhi tree rises majestically and its surrounding bodhigaraya consisting of brown stone is equally ancient, which en-hanced the feel of the place. The branches spread far and wide.

Tranquil surroundings S p r e a d

over 1,400 acres the temple com-plex is said to consist of 99 caves of which only nine can be seen today. This was a site of great spirituality as it was the home to over 300 Arahat ( reaching a high level of spirituality)

B u d d h i s t monks and a l t h o u g h what re-mains of it today is only a fraction of its glorious past, a sense of calmness prevails and

the visitor is show-ered with calm and tranquility in this peaceful environ-ment.

Villagers from the area say that although wild el-ephants come to the temple premises they do not harm the temple as it is a place of great divin-ity.

From the main path you can see a

great flight of stairs made of stone rising up, and only trees remain visible at the top. At the base of the steps are two buildings. One is the Dharma Shalawa or the hall where devotees listen to the sermons of the priest. This has been built during the Kandyan period and this is evident from the architecture.

However, the steps leading to the hall have

been made of stone flower pedestals that were used during a period before the Kandyan era. The stone pillars were previously obelisks with the king’s commands and on top is what remains of a sculptured crown.

The awesome ancient Bodhi tree was a sapling of the Sri Maha Bodhi that had been planted thousands of years ago by the King who instated Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Receiving of Plaques and the Election of new Regional Representatives

The General Assembly of the 58th CPC 2012 will be electing new Regional Representatives who will take office for the period of three years.

The outgoing Regional Representatives at the end of three years will receive a plaque in recognition of their service.

Hon. Chamal Rajapaksa, MP, Speaker of the Sri Lanka Parliament will also receive a plaque as the outgoing President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

Background to Retiring Executive Committee Members receiving plaques

It was at a meeting of the General Assembly in Jamaica in 1978, that it was agreed that retiring Members of the Executive Committee should receive a plaque in recognition of their service. The Malaysia Branch very gener-ously offered to donate the plaques each year. The Leader of the Malaysian Delegation or any other person in the Malaysian delegation is asked to present the plaques to other retiring Members.

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians

The new CWP Steering Committee Members’ terms start at the conclu-sion of the Conference.

8

14.09.2012Today

08:20 Assemble in Hotel Lobby

08:30 Depart Hotels for BMICH

09:00 General Assembly and Receiving of PlaquesVenue: BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre

10:30-10:45

RefreshmentsVenue: Lobby Area

12:00 Receiving of Plaques

13:00-14:00

LunchVenue: BMICH Auditorium

14:00 Final Plenary: ‘ The Role of Social Media in Modern-day Politics ’Venue: BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre

14:00 Meeting of the Society of Clerks at-the-TableVenue: BMICH –Committee Room A

15:45-16:00

RefreshmentsVenue: Lobby Area

16:00 Closing CeremonyVenue: BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre

16:30 Meeting of the New Executive CommitteeVenue: BMICH – Committee Room C

17:00 Close

Depart for respective Hotels

2

Spouses’ Programme :07:00 Breakfast at respective hotels

08:00 Assemble in Hotel Lobby

08:30 Leave for Laksala Handicraft Emporium, Colombo

09:00-10:15 Visit Laksala Handicraft EmporiumRefreshmentsVenue:Laksala Handicraft Emporium, Colombo

10:15 Leave for Barefoot Handloom Gallery, Colpetty

10:30-11:15 Visit Barefoot Handloom Gallery

11:15 Leave Barefoot Handloom Gallery for Mt. Lavinia Hotel

12:30 Arrival of the First Lady Madam Shiranthi Rajapaksa

12:45 Spouses Group Photograph

13:00 -14:00 LunchVenue:Mt. Lavinia Hotel

14:00 Leave for Zam Gems, Bambalapitiya

14:30-15:15 Visit Zam Gems Showroom

15:15 Leave for ODEL Fashion Store, Town Hall

15:45-16:45 Visit ODEL Fashion Store

16:45 Leave for respective Hotels

17:30 Arrive at respective Hotels

For all participants :19:00 Assemble in Hotel Lobby

19:15 Depart Hotels for Dinner

19:30-21:30

Farewell Dinner - (by invitation)Hosted by Hon. D.M Jayaratne, MP, Prime Minister for Delegates, Secretaries, Observers, Accompanying Officers, SOCATT Participants and SpousesVenue: Hilton - Grand Ball Room

Lessons from Europe to Tackle Youth Unemploy-mentThe workshop on “ Tackling Youth Unem-

ployment” was held at 2.30 p.m. in Com-mittee Room ‘D’ of BMICH, Colombo. Hon. Dr. Nafessa Shah, MNA (Pakistan) was the Moderator of the workshop.The Discussion Leaders were Hon. David Amess, MP (United Kingdom) and Hon. Wade Mark, MP (Trinidad and Tobago).

Mr. Gregory de Paepe, Policy Analyst Eu-rope, Middle East & Africa Unit, OECD and

Mr. Donglin Li, Country Director, ILO Country Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives acted as External Experts.

In his presentation Mr. Wade Mark, MP (Trinidad and Tobago) stated that after the economic crisis in the world, there were more than 6 million unemployed youth in his coun-try . Most of the unemployed were between 15 - 25 years old. Hon. Mark explained that this problem was created by the instability of the social, economic and political system. He Pointed out that a proper programme of skills development/ education and a proper labour policy should be introduced to solve the problem.

Hon. David Amess, MP (United Kingdom), in his presentation mentioned that the un-

employment problem was a global problem. The UK government recognised that there is a problem with youth unemployment and it was doing all that it could to reduce it. How-ever, it has to be done within the context of the national, European and international eco-nomic turmoil.

In UK, the educational system and training were considered as the key to tackling youth unemployment. Hon. Amess reiterated that Education should gear more towards voca-

tional type of training. He stated that the govern-ment of the UK has allo-cated one billion pounds to vocational training under the ‘Youth Con-tract Scheme’ in 2012.

It was pointed out that we could do a lot by learning from other Eu-ropean countries, such as Austria where 40% of young people go in to industrial training af-ter school and Germany which offers “dual edu-cation” between school

and industry.

Mr. Gregory de Paepe, Policy Analyst Europe, Middle East & Africa Unit, OECD pointed out that there are two major reasons for youth unemploy-ment and they were population growth and the-ory based edu-cation. To solve this problem we should encour-

age self employment and the job market should be expanded including the private sector.

Mr. Donglin Li, Country Director, ILO Coun-try Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives ex-

pressed the view that after the financial cri-sis in 2007 most of the countries which are members of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association were affected. To solve that prob-lem we have to introduce the E-learning sys-tem and have to take support from the ILO.

A lively discussion ensued and the major-ity of the participants were in agreement that youth unemployment is a burning global problem. There were different solutions con-tributed by Members such as raising the edu-cational system, giving importance to skills development, etc.

A participants from India emphasized that more funds should be allocated for the youth ministerial portfolio in all countries. A par-ticipant from Africa suggested that the retire-ment age should be reduced as a solution.

Members emphasized that as policy mak-ers of their respective countries, it was their duty and responsibility to create employ-ment opportunities to overcome youth un-employment problem. They stated that the job market of the private sector should be expanded to solve the problem. The private sector should be more involved.

The session was concluded with a vote of thanks by the chairperson.

Delegates in Jaffna

Delegates near Lions Paw at SigiriyaZero Tolerence ..........(continued from p.1)that terrorists ought to be isolated and their funding blocked. A global response is required since terrorism is a global phenomenon.

Ms. Irene Ng, (Singapore), Discussion Leader, said that in her country some Muslim youths are being radicalised. They are influenced by extremist ideologies. Through English language websites extremist ideas are propagated. Singapore government has launched an effective anti-terrorist operation. Terrorism is not a mere law and order problem. It is an ideological issue as

well. Anti- terrorism operations are not directed against Muslims. Only extremist groups such as JI are targeted. A special effort is being made to build trust between communities.

At the lively discussion which followed the presentations, participants stated that zero tolerance towards terrorism should be the policy of all governments. It was stressed that comprehensive anti-terrorist programmes are required. However, at the same time political, social and economic rights of all people should be granted. Anti-terrorism laws alone are not adequate - democracy with development and social justice are very important.

7

Deputy Speaker receiving Delegates in Galle

6 3

The above session was chaired by Hon. Julianna O’ Connor-Connolly (Cayman Island). The Discussion Leaders Mr. Devinder Shorley, MP, (Canada), Ms. Anna Lo, MEB, MLA (Northern Ireland), Sir Allan Kemakez, MP (Solomon Islands), and Hon. Datuk Ronald Kiandee, MP (Malaysia) shared their views based on their own experiences. The workshop was held at 2.30 p.m. in Committee Room ‘A’ of the BMICH, Colombo on 12

September 2012.

The presentations focused on the fact that irrespective of the Government or Opposition, a parliamentarian has the responsibility to establish peace, and minimize violence at grassroots level by practicing the democratic values of

the parliament, mainly the oversighting, legislative, and truce commissioning.

The External Expert, Mr. Mitch O’ Brian from the World Bank Institute, stressed that conflict resolution and peace can be achieved by strengthening the legislative structure and an effective budgeting process.

Hon. (Prof.) Kurien, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, India, emphasized that

parliamentarians are collectively duty-bound to take multifarious initiatives for creating peace and stability, and process the interests of the people. That would lead to the consolidation of the peace-building process.

In conclusion, it was pointed out that peace-building was the prime responsibility of the parliamentarian and it could be achieved when they are motivated to act in the best interests of the future of the Nation.

Workshop on ‘The Role of Parliamentarians in Conflict Resolution and Peace-Building’

Hon. Dr. Pambos Papageorgiou, MP (Cy-prus) chaired the above workshop which was held at Committee Room ‘C’ of the BMICH, Colombo at 11.00 a.m. on 12th September 2012. The Discussion Leaders were Hon. Re-quest Muntanga , MP (Zambia), Sen. Lke Ek-weremadu (Nigeria), Hon. Prof. G. L. Peiris MP ( Sri Lanka) and Hon. David Musila, MP (Kenya).

Hon. Request Muntanga stated that the constitution represents majority interests of people and reflects the origin of a nation. The constitution making process should repre-sent the majority of the people and not only the elite group. The main components in a constitution were fundamental rights and freedom.

Sen. Lke Ekwer-emadu (Nigeria), defined the consti-tution as the basic and most funda-mental law of a na-tion-state. It is the

‘numero uno, grundnorm, and fons et origo’ of any legal system.

He stressed that a relationship between the people and parliamentary sovereignty was vital. Many modern constitutions usually begin with the expression “we the people”. He stated that the process of amending con-stitutions is more stringent than that of con-ventional acts of Parliament.

Some factors that negatively affect con-stitution making were identified by Senator Ekweremadu. Some of them were inexperi-ence, lack of knowledge of procedure, crisis of expectations and temptation to do so much at a time. Apathy, lack of democratic culture,

ethnicity, lack of political will and lack of in-dependence too were factors that negatively affected constitution making.

He pointed out that the role of parliament in relation to the people was based on the cardinal principle of inclusively, participation, diversity, openness/ transparency, account-ability, autonomy and legitimacy.

Prof. G. L. Peiris defined parliament as a mirror of public opinion. In his presentation, he explained that several factors such as the electoral system, bicameral and unicameral legislature system and human rights helped to make a constitution.

The constitution should include a quota system for women with the view of providing an opportunity to achieve women’s rights.

The presentations were followed by an ac-tive discussion where Members shared their experiences in relation to their own coun-tries.

Workshop on ‘The Politics of Constitution-making, the Role of Parliaments in relation to the people’

The workshop on ‘Engaging Political Parties to Improve Gender Responsive Governance’ was held at 2.30 p.m. in Committee room ‘B’ of the BMICH on 12 September 2012.

It was chaired by Hon. Dr. Sudharsahani Fernandopulle, MP, Sri Lanka. The Discussion Leaders were Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, MPL (Gauteng), Senator Helen Polley (Australia), Hon. Speaker Smt. Meira Kumar (India). Ms. Kemi Ogunsanya, functioned as the External Expert form the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Addressing the session Discussion Leader Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, (Gauteng) emphasized the importance of political parties in engaging in activities to find solutions to the gender issues pertaining to the

participation of women in the democratic process. She pointed out that gender equality in the political process was a fundamental necessity. No political party in the world would be in a position to achieve democracy without the active participation of women in politics.

Hon. Maseko drew attention to the fact that political parties had a profound impact of on the issue of gender equality and that it has to be addressed in the agenda of world politics. That was not a very easy process and has been a continuing struggle in every region for many years. Hon. Lindiwe stated that in 1995 the African National Congress (ANC) had a 30% of women representation and it was 50% in 2007.

Ms. Kemi Ogunsanya, External Expert from the Commonwealth S e c r e t a r i a t stated that she firmly believed the fact that there should be reforms in political agendas to provide greater o p p o r t u n i t y for women to represent political parties. She pointed

out that there was a tendency for women to vote for women. She stressed that it was a timely requirement to bring women forward in politics and that civil societies have an important role to play in monitoring that task. She emphasized that one should have specific themes to address gender issues.

She mentioned that 20% of women were involved in the process of sustainable development. Hon. Meira Kumar wanted to remind the Members of the workshop of Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the first woman Prime Minister in the world.

Senator Hellen Polley (Australia) was of the view that it was of paramount importance for women to participate in the process of decision making at national level and to address this issue at the agenda of any political party. She expressed her views on the percentage of representation of women in politics the world over. According to Senator Polley 20% of women are engaged in activities of political parties in the world. She explained that men are very well educated on the issue of gender equality in politics in Australia. She said that the Labour Party in Australia is encouraging women for politics. Finally she urged that a ten year plan has been implemented in relation to the representation of women in political parties in Australia.

Hon. Meira Kumar expressed her gratitude to the Parliament of Sri Lanka and to the Hon. Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa of the Parliament of Sri Lanka for hosting the 58th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference.

Women should participate in the process of decision-making at national level

4 5

Dinner hosted by His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, the President of Sri Lanka for Leaders of Delegations, Executive Committee Members and Spouses, at Temple Trees on 12.09.2012

Dinner hosted by Hon. (Al Haj) S. Alavi Moulana, Governor of Western Province on 12.09.2012

4 5

Dinner hosted by His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, the President of Sri Lanka for Leaders of Delegations, Executive Committee Members and Spouses, at Temple Trees on 12.09.2012

Dinner hosted by Hon. (Al Haj) S. Alavi Moulana, Governor of Western Province on 12.09.2012

6 3

The above session was chaired by Hon. Julianna O’ Connor-Connolly (Cayman Island). The Discussion Leaders Mr. Devinder Shorley, MP, (Canada), Ms. Anna Lo, MEB, MLA (Northern Ireland), Sir Allan Kemakez, MP (Solomon Islands), and Hon. Datuk Ronald Kiandee, MP (Malaysia) shared their views based on their own experiences. The workshop was held at 2.30 p.m. in Committee Room ‘A’ of the BMICH, Colombo on 12

September 2012.

The presentations focused on the fact that irrespective of the Government or Opposition, a parliamentarian has the responsibility to establish peace, and minimize violence at grassroots level by practicing the democratic values of

the parliament, mainly the oversighting, legislative, and truce commissioning.

The External Expert, Mr. Mitch O’ Brian from the World Bank Institute, stressed that conflict resolution and peace can be achieved by strengthening the legislative structure and an effective budgeting process.

Hon. (Prof.) Kurien, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, India, emphasized that

parliamentarians are collectively duty-bound to take multifarious initiatives for creating peace and stability, and process the interests of the people. That would lead to the consolidation of the peace-building process.

In conclusion, it was pointed out that peace-building was the prime responsibility of the parliamentarian and it could be achieved when they are motivated to act in the best interests of the future of the Nation.

Workshop on ‘The Role of Parliamentarians in Conflict Resolution and Peace-Building’

Hon. Dr. Pambos Papageorgiou, MP (Cy-prus) chaired the above workshop which was held at Committee Room ‘C’ of the BMICH, Colombo at 11.00 a.m. on 12th September 2012. The Discussion Leaders were Hon. Re-quest Muntanga , MP (Zambia), Sen. Lke Ek-weremadu (Nigeria), Hon. Prof. G. L. Peiris MP ( Sri Lanka) and Hon. David Musila, MP (Kenya).

Hon. Request Muntanga stated that the constitution represents majority interests of people and reflects the origin of a nation. The constitution making process should repre-sent the majority of the people and not only the elite group. The main components in a constitution were fundamental rights and freedom.

Sen. Lke Ekwer-emadu (Nigeria), defined the consti-tution as the basic and most funda-mental law of a na-tion-state. It is the

‘numero uno, grundnorm, and fons et origo’ of any legal system.

He stressed that a relationship between the people and parliamentary sovereignty was vital. Many modern constitutions usually begin with the expression “we the people”. He stated that the process of amending con-stitutions is more stringent than that of con-ventional acts of Parliament.

Some factors that negatively affect con-stitution making were identified by Senator Ekweremadu. Some of them were inexperi-ence, lack of knowledge of procedure, crisis of expectations and temptation to do so much at a time. Apathy, lack of democratic culture,

ethnicity, lack of political will and lack of in-dependence too were factors that negatively affected constitution making.

He pointed out that the role of parliament in relation to the people was based on the cardinal principle of inclusively, participation, diversity, openness/ transparency, account-ability, autonomy and legitimacy.

Prof. G. L. Peiris defined parliament as a mirror of public opinion. In his presentation, he explained that several factors such as the electoral system, bicameral and unicameral legislature system and human rights helped to make a constitution.

The constitution should include a quota system for women with the view of providing an opportunity to achieve women’s rights.

The presentations were followed by an ac-tive discussion where Members shared their experiences in relation to their own coun-tries.

Workshop on ‘The Politics of Constitution-making, the Role of Parliaments in relation to the people’

The workshop on ‘Engaging Political Parties to Improve Gender Responsive Governance’ was held at 2.30 p.m. in Committee room ‘B’ of the BMICH on 12 September 2012.

It was chaired by Hon. Dr. Sudharsahani Fernandopulle, MP, Sri Lanka. The Discussion Leaders were Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, MPL (Gauteng), Senator Helen Polley (Australia), Hon. Speaker Smt. Meira Kumar (India). Ms. Kemi Ogunsanya, functioned as the External Expert form the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Addressing the session Discussion Leader Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, (Gauteng) emphasized the importance of political parties in engaging in activities to find solutions to the gender issues pertaining to the

participation of women in the democratic process. She pointed out that gender equality in the political process was a fundamental necessity. No political party in the world would be in a position to achieve democracy without the active participation of women in politics.

Hon. Maseko drew attention to the fact that political parties had a profound impact of on the issue of gender equality and that it has to be addressed in the agenda of world politics. That was not a very easy process and has been a continuing struggle in every region for many years. Hon. Lindiwe stated that in 1995 the African National Congress (ANC) had a 30% of women representation and it was 50% in 2007.

Ms. Kemi Ogunsanya, External Expert from the Commonwealth S e c r e t a r i a t stated that she firmly believed the fact that there should be reforms in political agendas to provide greater o p p o r t u n i t y for women to represent political parties. She pointed

out that there was a tendency for women to vote for women. She stressed that it was a timely requirement to bring women forward in politics and that civil societies have an important role to play in monitoring that task. She emphasized that one should have specific themes to address gender issues.

She mentioned that 20% of women were involved in the process of sustainable development. Hon. Meira Kumar wanted to remind the Members of the workshop of Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the first woman Prime Minister in the world.

Senator Hellen Polley (Australia) was of the view that it was of paramount importance for women to participate in the process of decision making at national level and to address this issue at the agenda of any political party. She expressed her views on the percentage of representation of women in politics the world over. According to Senator Polley 20% of women are engaged in activities of political parties in the world. She explained that men are very well educated on the issue of gender equality in politics in Australia. She said that the Labour Party in Australia is encouraging women for politics. Finally she urged that a ten year plan has been implemented in relation to the representation of women in political parties in Australia.

Hon. Meira Kumar expressed her gratitude to the Parliament of Sri Lanka and to the Hon. Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa of the Parliament of Sri Lanka for hosting the 58th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference.

Women should participate in the process of decision-making at national level

14.09.2012Today

08:20 Assemble in Hotel Lobby

08:30 Depart Hotels for BMICH

09:00 General Assembly and Receiving of PlaquesVenue: BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre

10:30-10:45

RefreshmentsVenue: Lobby Area

12:00 Receiving of Plaques

13:00-14:00

LunchVenue: BMICH Auditorium

14:00 Final Plenary: ‘ The Role of Social Media in Modern-day Politics ’Venue: BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre

14:00 Meeting of the Society of Clerks at-the-TableVenue: BMICH –Committee Room A

15:45-16:00

RefreshmentsVenue: Lobby Area

16:00 Closing CeremonyVenue: BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre

16:30 Meeting of the New Executive CommitteeVenue: BMICH – Committee Room C

17:00 Close

Depart for respective Hotels

2

Spouses’ Programme :07:00 Breakfast at respective hotels

08:00 Assemble in Hotel Lobby

08:30 Leave for Laksala Handicraft Emporium, Colombo

09:00-10:15 Visit Laksala Handicraft EmporiumRefreshmentsVenue:Laksala Handicraft Emporium, Colombo

10:15 Leave for Barefoot Handloom Gallery, Colpetty

10:30-11:15 Visit Barefoot Handloom Gallery

11:15 Leave Barefoot Handloom Gallery for Mt. Lavinia Hotel

12:30 Arrival of the First Lady Madam Shiranthi Rajapaksa

12:45 Spouses Group Photograph

13:00 -14:00 LunchVenue:Mt. Lavinia Hotel

14:00 Leave for Zam Gems, Bambalapitiya

14:30-15:15 Visit Zam Gems Showroom

15:15 Leave for ODEL Fashion Store, Town Hall

15:45-16:45 Visit ODEL Fashion Store

16:45 Leave for respective Hotels

17:30 Arrive at respective Hotels

For all participants :19:00 Assemble in Hotel Lobby

19:15 Depart Hotels for Dinner

19:30-21:30

Farewell Dinner - (by invitation)Hosted by Hon. D.M Jayaratne, MP, Prime Minister for Delegates, Secretaries, Observers, Accompanying Officers, SOCATT Participants and SpousesVenue: Hilton - Grand Ball Room

Lessons from Europe to Tackle Youth Unemploy-mentThe workshop on “ Tackling Youth Unem-

ployment” was held at 2.30 p.m. in Com-mittee Room ‘D’ of BMICH, Colombo. Hon. Dr. Nafessa Shah, MNA (Pakistan) was the Moderator of the workshop.The Discussion Leaders were Hon. David Amess, MP (United Kingdom) and Hon. Wade Mark, MP (Trinidad and Tobago).

Mr. Gregory de Paepe, Policy Analyst Eu-rope, Middle East & Africa Unit, OECD and

Mr. Donglin Li, Country Director, ILO Country Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives acted as External Experts.

In his presentation Mr. Wade Mark, MP (Trinidad and Tobago) stated that after the economic crisis in the world, there were more than 6 million unemployed youth in his coun-try . Most of the unemployed were between 15 - 25 years old. Hon. Mark explained that this problem was created by the instability of the social, economic and political system. He Pointed out that a proper programme of skills development/ education and a proper labour policy should be introduced to solve the problem.

Hon. David Amess, MP (United Kingdom), in his presentation mentioned that the un-

employment problem was a global problem. The UK government recognised that there is a problem with youth unemployment and it was doing all that it could to reduce it. How-ever, it has to be done within the context of the national, European and international eco-nomic turmoil.

In UK, the educational system and training were considered as the key to tackling youth unemployment. Hon. Amess reiterated that Education should gear more towards voca-

tional type of training. He stated that the govern-ment of the UK has allo-cated one billion pounds to vocational training under the ‘Youth Con-tract Scheme’ in 2012.

It was pointed out that we could do a lot by learning from other Eu-ropean countries, such as Austria where 40% of young people go in to industrial training af-ter school and Germany which offers “dual edu-cation” between school

and industry.

Mr. Gregory de Paepe, Policy Analyst Europe, Middle East & Africa Unit, OECD pointed out that there are two major reasons for youth unemploy-ment and they were population growth and the-ory based edu-cation. To solve this problem we should encour-

age self employment and the job market should be expanded including the private sector.

Mr. Donglin Li, Country Director, ILO Coun-try Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives ex-

pressed the view that after the financial cri-sis in 2007 most of the countries which are members of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association were affected. To solve that prob-lem we have to introduce the E-learning sys-tem and have to take support from the ILO.

A lively discussion ensued and the major-ity of the participants were in agreement that youth unemployment is a burning global problem. There were different solutions con-tributed by Members such as raising the edu-cational system, giving importance to skills development, etc.

A participants from India emphasized that more funds should be allocated for the youth ministerial portfolio in all countries. A par-ticipant from Africa suggested that the retire-ment age should be reduced as a solution.

Members emphasized that as policy mak-ers of their respective countries, it was their duty and responsibility to create employ-ment opportunities to overcome youth un-employment problem. They stated that the job market of the private sector should be expanded to solve the problem. The private sector should be more involved.

The session was concluded with a vote of thanks by the chairperson.

Delegates in Jaffna

Delegates near Lions Paw at SigiriyaZero Tolerence ..........(continued from p.1)that terrorists ought to be isolated and their funding blocked. A global response is required since terrorism is a global phenomenon.

Ms. Irene Ng, (Singapore), Discussion Leader, said that in her country some Muslim youths are being radicalised. They are influenced by extremist ideologies. Through English language websites extremist ideas are propagated. Singapore government has launched an effective anti-terrorist operation. Terrorism is not a mere law and order problem. It is an ideological issue as

well. Anti- terrorism operations are not directed against Muslims. Only extremist groups such as JI are targeted. A special effort is being made to build trust between communities.

At the lively discussion which followed the presentations, participants stated that zero tolerance towards terrorism should be the policy of all governments. It was stressed that comprehensive anti-terrorist programmes are required. However, at the same time political, social and economic rights of all people should be granted. Anti-terrorism laws alone are not adequate - democracy with development and social justice are very important.

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Deputy Speaker receiving Delegates in Galle

NEWS BULLETIN Friday, 14 September 2012

58th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

Colombo, Sri Lanka07-15 September 2012

Issue - No. 7

Ms. Dintle Nkwanyana, Personal Assistant to Hon. Speaker, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa

Final Plenary and Closing Ceremony will be held at the BMICH - Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre today.

Major events scheduled are as follows: -

9:00 General Assembly and Receiving of Plaques

14:00 Meeting of the Society of Clerks at-the-Table

16:00 Closing Ceremony

16:30 Meeting of the New Executive Committee

19:30-21:30 Farewell Dinner Hosted by Hon. D.M Jayaratne, MP, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

Weather today -

The workshop on “Terrorism - the Threat to Democracy and Security” was held at 2.30 p.m. in Committee Room ‘C’ of the BMICH on 12 September 2012. While it was moderated by Hon. Elijah Okupa, MP (Uganda), the Discussion Leaders were Hon . Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, MP (Uganda), Senator Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah (Paklistan) and Ms. Irene Ng, MP (Singapore).

Hon. Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, MP (Uganda), Discussion Leader, stated at the outset that governments have realized the importance of collective action in combating terrorism as Terrorists are a great hindrance to democracy. People should be able to choose their own governments but armed groups disrupt that process. Those who are oppressed resort to terrorism. Mr. Muhwezi Katugugu, went on to explain how poverty, unemployment, unbalanced development, unfair redistribution of wealth, corruption, nepotism and gender imbalance create space for terrorism. Race and religion should be separated from terrorism since terrorists have no race or religion. Effective counter-terrorism programmes are needed.

Senator Syed Muzaffar Hussain Shah of Pakistan, Discussion Leader, said that

terrorism was no longer a local problem but has developed to become a global problem. After the 9/11 incident, it is apparent that even the developed world is not safe. Deprivation leads to terrorism, hence, the biggest weapon against terrorism is to create a just society. At present, terrorists use modern technology such as the Internet. Senator Hussain Shah emphasized

(continued in p.7)

Zero tolerance towards terrorism should be the policy of all Governments

Day Night

Historic SasseruwaSasseruwa which is located in Meegal-

awa in the Kurunegala-Anuradhapura border is a place of great history, running back to thousands of years to the time of King Devanampiyatissa (262 – 232 BC.).

The temple premises are quite unassum-ing and at first glance it is not apparent that this is a place of rich and vibrant history. The temple has had the patronage of kings from various eras.

Sasseruwa is popularly known as Ras Ve-hera. Owing to the fact that Buddha Rashmi or Budhu Ras had emanated on the occa-sion of planting one of the 32 saplings of the Sri Maha Bodhi at this site by King Devan-ampiyatissa. Hence the name Ras Vehera. Furthermore, it is also thought that as a result, the temple was established here.

Another school of thought is that King Val-agamba gathered his troops here, which in Sinhala mean ‘Senaga Ras Karapu Viharaya’ that resulted in the name Ras Vehera.

King Devanampiyatissa established the temple. King Valagamba during his 13 years of exile from the capital, sought refuge at Ras Vehera from foreign invaders and built the two len vihara (cave temples); Maha Viharaya and Sath Pilima Viharaya.

Then, King Mahasen was believed to have commissioned the sculpture of a rock stand-ing statue of Lord Buddha, which is one of the highlights of the visit. It is because of this statue that the temple is also known as Sasse-ruwa, which is derived from Sahalgath Ruwa (meaning carved image). There is a reference to King Bathiyatissa, with a cave designated in his name.

Though Sasseruwa had been abandoned for some time we see a renaissance during

the Kandyan era under the patronage of King Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe.

The ancient Bodhi tree rises majestically and its surrounding bodhigaraya consisting of brown stone is equally ancient, which en-hanced the feel of the place. The branches spread far and wide.

Tranquil surroundings S p r e a d

over 1,400 acres the temple com-plex is said to consist of 99 caves of which only nine can be seen today. This was a site of great spirituality as it was the home to over 300 Arahat ( reaching a high level of spirituality)

B u d d h i s t monks and a l t h o u g h what re-mains of it today is only a fraction of its glorious past, a sense of calmness prevails and

the visitor is show-ered with calm and tranquility in this peaceful environ-ment.

Villagers from the area say that although wild el-ephants come to the temple premises they do not harm the temple as it is a place of great divin-ity.

From the main path you can see a

great flight of stairs made of stone rising up, and only trees remain visible at the top. At the base of the steps are two buildings. One is the Dharma Shalawa or the hall where devotees listen to the sermons of the priest. This has been built during the Kandyan period and this is evident from the architecture.

However, the steps leading to the hall have

been made of stone flower pedestals that were used during a period before the Kandyan era. The stone pillars were previously obelisks with the king’s commands and on top is what remains of a sculptured crown.

The awesome ancient Bodhi tree was a sapling of the Sri Maha Bodhi that had been planted thousands of years ago by the King who instated Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Receiving of Plaques and the Election of new Regional Representatives

The General Assembly of the 58th CPC 2012 will be electing new Regional Representatives who will take office for the period of three years.

The outgoing Regional Representatives at the end of three years will receive a plaque in recognition of their service.

Hon. Chamal Rajapaksa, MP, Speaker of the Sri Lanka Parliament will also receive a plaque as the outgoing President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

Background to Retiring Executive Committee Members receiving plaques

It was at a meeting of the General Assembly in Jamaica in 1978, that it was agreed that retiring Members of the Executive Committee should receive a plaque in recognition of their service. The Malaysia Branch very gener-ously offered to donate the plaques each year. The Leader of the Malaysian Delegation or any other person in the Malaysian delegation is asked to present the plaques to other retiring Members.

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians

The new CWP Steering Committee Members’ terms start at the conclu-sion of the Conference.

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